Rams at Jets

By GREG BISHOP

Published: November 9, 2008

Thomas Jones

vs. Rams' front seven

Thomas Jones, above, has quietly amassed 601 rushing yards, good for second-most in the American Football Conference and ninth in the N.F.L. More important, he also has five rushing touchdowns and six over all, both team highs.

Given the way last season unfolded, those statistics represent significant progress. Playing behind an offensive line that struggled last year, Jones still managed to run for more than 1,100 yards, but had only one rushing touchdown. This season, Jones is averaging 4.5 yards a carry, and he helped the Jets ice their 26-17 victory over the Bills by chewing up yardage in the fourth quarter.

Jones also became the 49th back in N.F.L. history to gain 7,000 rushing yards in his career.

He hopes to add to that total against the Rams, who rank 29th in the N.F.L. at stopping the run, allowing 155.5 yards a game. With quarterback Brett Favre looking comfortable against the Bills in a game-manager role, the Jets may turn to Jones to control the clock -- and the game.

By the numbers

16

Special-teams tackles by Wallace Wright, the most in the conference.

4

Interceptions by Darrelle Revis, tied for best in the league.

4

Days until the Jets' next game, against the Patriots on Thursday night.

30

Rushing yards by the Bills last week, the fourth time the Jets held an opponent to fewer than 50 this season.

8:41

Time the Jets consumed on a fourth-quarter drive against the Bills. GREG BISHOP